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Seven Media mulls IPTV service

Sees NBN as enabler for 2014 launch

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Having effectively killed off TiVo in Australia, TV broadcaster Seven West Media is considering its IPTV options, telling investors it has plans to create a “broadcast to broadband” operation in 2014.

While Australia's free-to-air broadcasters have embraced the Internet for program catch-ups, they have mostly responded to the Internet by hiding under the blankets. Announcing its financial results last week, Seven broke ranks by stating that IPTV business models are now on its agenda.

The broadcaster hasn't revealed what revenue models it has in mind, but The Australianreports that ad-supported broadcasts will still be part of the mix.

According to marketing magazine B&T, the company is looking at targeted and personalised advertising as part of the model to support Internet distribution.

However, subscription models are also possible, so long as Seven can work out how to do so without affecting its free-to-air broadcast model. The broadcaster also says it's working with device manufacturers to ensure support for the service.

CEO of the broadcast TV operation, Tim Worner, said the “inexorable rise of the individual” was changing how people consume TV, and that Australia's National Broadband Network would be an enabler for new models.

The broadcaster also intends to create a mobile version of its Plus7 catch-up service, for launch before the end of 2013. ®